Admin l Friday, January 20, 2017
BANJUL, Gambia – The British government has scheduled six final flights to take the remaining British citizens out of Gambia to the United Kingdom as the Economic Comminity of West African States, ECOWAS, prepares to flush out sit tight Gambian President Yahya Jammeh.
Jammeh has refused to relinquish power to Adama Barrow who defeated him in the December 1, Presidential election. He has extended his stay in office by 90 days.
The military confrontation which is imminent has forced the British Government and others to move their citizens away from Gambia.
The UK is using Thomas Cook which has fixed final six repatriation flights from The Gambia on Friday 20 January. Hundreds of British citizens have been conveyed from Gambia to UK in the last few days.
“Any flight-only customers that have not yet been in contact to arrange their flight back to the UK should call Thomas Cook on +44 161 774 2966 as soon as possible for details of their allocated flight. Passengers due to fly should arrive at Banjul International Airport at least four hours prior to departure.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has in the meantime advised against all travel to the city of Banjul.
”This is the area on Banjul Island around State House, a potential flashpoint in the event of a military intervention. This is well away from the tourist areas.
“The FCO also advise against all but essential travel to The Gambia as a whole (including Banjul airport) due to ongoing political uncertainty and potential military intervention following the Presidential elections on 1 December 2016.
“If you’re currently in The Gambia you should leave by commercial means if you have no essential need to remain. Contact your airline or travel company for more information about departure options”, the UK Home Office said in a statement.
It added that the incumbent President, Yahya Jammeh, continues to contest the election results at the Supreme Court, while the President elect, Mr. Adama Barrow, has left the country.
“The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has stated it may intervene, including possible military action, if President Jammeh doesn’t step down on the scheduled handover date of 18/19 January 2017.
“This has led to intransigence on the part of the sitting government, resulting in reports that it has started to take restrictive measures, including shutting down opposition radio stations and making politically motivated arrests. The potential for military intervention and civil disturbance is high and could result in Banjul International Airport being closed at short notice.
“You should follow events closely, take extra care, keep in regular contact with your tour operator and airline and continue to monitor travel advice and social media updates in case tensions rise as the current political deadlock continues. Avoid large crowds and avoid discussing politically sensitive topics in public”, the office said.
